The report claims that United’s new fitness coach Stefano Rapetti has first-hand knowledge of the Danish defender and worked with Anderson during his time at Sampdoria.

Rapetti recommended the central defender to Mourinho, as per the report, and Sampdoria want to sell their 22-year-old star.

The report claims that the Italians are hoping for a bidding war for the rising star with Juventus, Inter Milan and Tottenham interested in Andersen.

United even sent scouts to watch the youngster against Torino, but Sampdoria lost the home game 4-1. The report adds that the Italian side will not sell the 22-year-old midway through the season, so a move in the summer seems likely.

Sampdoria would be looking at £26million (h/t Metro) for the 22-year-old and will listen to bids in the summer.

Jose Mourinho didn’t sign a central defender in the summer, but the report adds that the United boss wants a quality centre-back in the winter window.

Anderson could be a smart signing, given he won’t cost a huge amount and has the potential to get better.

The Red Devils struggled at the start of the season but have seen better performances in the last month or so.